The Minority Caucus in Parliament has accused the government of creating uncertainty around the future of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, commonly referred to as the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill, suggesting that inconsistencies in public statements are delaying its progress.
In a statement issued on Thursday, June 4, and signed by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the caucus alleged that conflicting remarks from senior government and parliamentary figures point to a lack of clear commitment to the legislation.
The Minority argued that confusion surrounding the bill intensified after its amended version was passed in Parliament, with President John Dramani Mahama reportedly questioning whether the House had the required quorum during its approval.
They also cited comments attributed to Speaker Alban Bagbin, who has suggested that the bill may need to be returned for further consideration, alongside reported reservations from the Majority leadership.
According to the statement, these developments indicate an attempt to delay the bill while the governing National Democratic Congress manages political pressures surrounding its earlier strong support for the legislation.
The Minority further contended that the NDC’s current stance contrasts with its position in opposition, when it actively pushed for the passage of earlier versions of the bill and criticised delays in granting presidential assent.
They maintained that the version passed by the 8th Parliament in 2024 had already gone through extensive amendments and should be allowed to proceed without further delay.
The caucus insisted that supporters of the legislation expect consistency from political leaders who previously backed the bill, arguing that any perceived shift undermines public trust.
The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill continues to generate national debate, with differing views on its legal process, content, and constitutional implications as discussions over its final passage continue in Parliament.
